Our Guide to All the Parts of a Sprinkler Irrigation System

As St. Louis homeowners seek to maintain lush, healthy landscapes while conserving water, understanding the parts of a sprinkler irrigation system has never been more important. At Allen Outdoor Solutions, we’ve installed and maintained thousands of irrigation systems throughout the region, giving us unique insight into how these systems work—and what makes them last.

Water Source Components: Where It All Begins

Every irrigation system starts with its connection to a water source:

Water Source Connection

• Main shut-off valve: Controls all water flow to your system
• Water meter: Often separate for irrigation systems
• Pressure gauge: Monitors water pressure

Backflow Preventer

This critical safety device prevents irrigation water from flowing backward into your drinking water. St. Louis County requires backflow preventers on all irrigation systems, with annual testing required.

Types include:

• Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)
• Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA)
• Reduced Pressure Principle Device (RP)

At Allen Outdoor Solutions, we ensure your backflow preventer meets all local code requirements and is properly installed for safety and compliance.

Control System: The Brain of Your Irrigation

Controller/Timer

The controller is the command center of your system, allowing you to program watering schedules:

• Standard controllers: Basic watering programs
• Smart controllers: Adjust based on weather data
• Weather-based controllers: Modify schedules automatically
• Flow-sensing controllers: Detect leaks and malfunctions

“Smart controller upgrades are one of our most popular services,” notes our irrigation specialist. “Many of our clients see water savings of 30-50% while maintaining healthier lawns.”

Weather Sensors

These components increase efficiency:

• Rain sensors: Prevent watering during rainfall
• Freeze sensors: Protect your system in cold weather
• Soil moisture sensors: Water only when needed

Water Distribution Network

Main Line

Carries water from the backflow preventer to zone valves, typically constructed of:

• PVC pipe
• Polyethylene pipe (preferred in St. Louis for freeze resistance)

Zone Valves

These electrically operated valves control water flow to specific areas:

• Open when signaled by the controller
• Control watering duration in different zones
• Group plants with similar water needs

“Proper zoning is essential for water efficiency,” explains our design team at Allen Outdoor Solutions. “We evaluate sun exposure, plant types, and soil conditions to create zones that make sense for your landscape.”

Valve Boxes

Protective housings that:

• Shield valves from elements and damage
• Provide access for maintenance
• Organize multiple valves

Lateral Lines

Secondary pipes that carry water from zone valves to individual sprinkler heads. Our installation team ensures proper depth and material selection for St. Louis soil conditions.

Delivery Components: Sprinkler Heads

The visible parts of your irrigation system come in several specialized types:

Spray Heads

• Cover small to medium areas (5-15 foot radius)
• Ideal for smaller lawn areas and narrow strips
• Available with adjustable patterns

Rotary Heads

• Cover larger areas (15-35 foot radius)
• More water-efficient for open spaces
• Apply water more slowly, reducing runoff

“Using the right head for each area makes all the difference,” shares our technician. “At Allen Outdoor Solutions, we carefully select heads based on your landscape’s specific needs.”

Impact Sprinklers

• Durable and resistant to dirty water
• Excellent for large areas
• More visible above ground

Bubbler Heads and Drip Emitters

• Deliver water directly to plants
• Minimize water loss from evaporation
• Perfect for flower beds and shrub areas

Efficiency Components

Modern irrigation systems include several parts specifically designed to improve water efficiency:

Pressure Regulators

• Ensure optimal pressure for sprinkler performance
• Prevent misting and water waste
• Extend system component life

Filters

• Protect sprinkler heads from debris
• Particularly important for well water systems
• Available in various mesh sizes

Check Valves

• Prevent water from draining out of low-lying heads
• Eliminate puddles and water waste
• Available built into heads or as separate components

Advanced Components for Modern Systems

Flow Sensors

• Detect leaks and broken pipes
• Measure water usage for conservation tracking
• Integrate with smart controllers

Master Valves

• Provide fail-safe protection against leaks
• Extend the life of zone valves
• Recommended for all new installations

“Our professional irrigation systems at Allen Outdoor Solutions incorporate these advanced components to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability,” explains our installation manager. “We’ve seen how these features save our clients thousands of gallons of water annually.”

System Design: How Parts Work Together

Understanding all parts of a sprinkler irrigation system is essential, but knowing how they work together is even more important. Our design team at Allen Outdoor Solutions creates systems with:

• Head-to-head coverage: Positioning sprinklers for optimal water distribution
• Matched precipitation rates: Using components that apply water uniformly
• Appropriate zoning: Grouping areas with similar water needs

Maintaining Your Sprinkler System

Once your system is properly installed, regular maintenance ensures longevity:

Spring Start-up

• Inspect all components
• Check controller programming
• Test each zone for performance

Fall Winterization

In St. Louis, proper winterization is critical:

• Blow out all water using compressed air
• Drain backflow preventer
• Protect components from freezing

Allen Outdoor Solutions offers comprehensive maintenance packages that protect your investment and ensure peak performance year after year.

Choose Allen Outdoor Solutions for Your Irrigation Needs

With over 15 years of experience installing and maintaining irrigation systems in the St. Louis area, Allen Outdoor Solutions brings unmatched expertise to every project. Our team:

• Designs custom systems based on your specific landscape
• Uses high-quality components for reliability
• Provides professional installation with minimal disruption
• Offers ongoing maintenance and support

Understanding the parts of a sprinkler irrigation system isn’t just technical knowledge—it’s the key to a beautiful landscape, lower water bills, and hassle-free operation.

Ready to discuss how a properly designed irrigation system can transform your property? Contact Allen Outdoor Solutions today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most essential parts of a sprinkler irrigation system?

While all components are important, the backflow preventer, controller, valves, and appropriate sprinkler heads form the core of an effective system. At Allen Outdoor Solutions, we ensure these critical components are properly selected and installed.

How often should my sprinkler system be inspected?

We recommend a professional inspection annually, typically during spring start-up. Allen Outdoor Solutions offers maintenance packages that include regular inspections and adjustments.

Can I upgrade individual parts of my sprinkler system?

Most systems can be upgraded component by component. Popular upgrades include adding smart controllers, installing more efficient heads, or incorporating moisture sensors. Allen Outdoor Solutions specializes in system upgrades that improve efficiency without requiring complete replacement.

What makes Allen Outdoor Solutions different from other irrigation companies?

Our deep understanding of St. Louis soil conditions, climate challenges, and water conservation needs allows us to design and install systems that outperform and outlast the competition. We focus on quality components, proper design, and exceptional customer service from consultation through installation and beyond.